Energy-Efficient Lighting

Energy Efficient Lighting

Home lighting – inside and outside – may seem to many like a drop in the bucket when considering the planet’s environmental challenges. But, in fact, the steps we take to reduce usage and convert to new technologies promise to go a long way in reducing the stress on the planet. The EPA says that lighting accounts for about 20 percent of Americans’ monthly electric bill. Lighting also is a significant source of stress on the environment, contributing heavily to greenhouse gas emissions. A study by Carnegie Mellon University highlights the significant role lighting technologies play in reducing greenhouse gases. More than 20 percent of electricity consumption in the United States comes from lighting in and outside our homes, in offices and commercial buildings as well as streets, researchers report.

How can you make a difference?

Start by using less simply by remembering to turn off lights when rooms aren’t in use or in the daylight hours when natural light will do. Then evaluate what lights and rooms get the biggest workout and switch to ENERGY STAR bulbs and fixtures. Shop for CFL (for "compact fluorescent light") bulbs (those that often are spiral shaped and other specialty bulbs) to replace incandescent lighting sources in key areas throughout your home. Kitchen ceiling lights, lights in the family room and porch and post lights are major lighting "hogs", so start your replacement process with these sources.

Also investigate LED (light-emitting diodes) products that use less energy by efficiently converting electricity into light, last longer than traditional bulbs and use less harmful materials like mercury. More than 500 fluorescent tubes discarded every year dumps an estimated four tons of mercury into the environment.

EPA Recognizes Metro Lighting with 2010 Excellence Award

Metro Lighting

Metro Lighting, a family-owned and operated lighting retailer and wholesaler, has served the St. Louis and surrounding areas since 1967 and employs 115 people. With seven lighting locations, Metro Lighting is dedicated to convenience, selection and ultimate customer service. For more information about Metro Lighting, call Sarah King at 314.645.5656.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized Metro Lighting with a 2010 Excellence in Retailing Award for its outstanding contributions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by marketing and promoting energy-efficient products. Metro Lighting will be recognized at an ENERGY STAR awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on March 18, 2010.

Metro Lighting, an ENERGY STAR partner since 2007, is honored for offering and marketing a wide selection of energy saving and ENERGY STAR-rated products, implementing environmentally-focused programs such as a light bulb and battery recycling program, a company-wide recycling program and lighting center dimming system, and participating in community events with a focus on the environment and energy savings.

Metro Lighting's contributions to energy efficiency have had national impact. Last year alone, Americans with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved nearly $17 billion on their energy bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of more than 30 million vehicles.

"Metro Lighting and ENERGY STAR have a critical partnership," said Nick Frisella, Metro Lighting's Special Projects manager. "More and more of our customers are looking for products that save money and protect the environment. By offering products that have earned the ENERGY STAR we are working to fulfill our customers' needs while helping address climate change."

The 2010 Excellence in Retailing Award is given to organizations for their efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in significant cost savings. Award winners are selected from over 17,000 organizations that participate in the ENERGY STAR program. Only one Excellence in Retailing Award for Lighting is given nationally.

"Today, EPA is recognizing Metro Lighting for its commitment to addressing climate change through greater energy efficiency," said Gina McCarthy, EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation. "Through the sales and marketing of quality products, Metro Lighting is helping customers increase their energy efficiency while reducing our nation's emissions of greenhouse gases."

For more on Metro Lighting, click here.

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